T.M. Selection: Illinois (10* BLOWOUT).

Illinois routed Northwestern last month and I expect another beatdown of epic proportions here as well. Northwestern has lost 11 straight, so the temptation to possibly "look past" their lowly opponent, one which they annihilated 81-56, is a definite possibility, but in the end with the regular season so close to finishing, I don't expect any lapse in concentration from the favored side here. And that's the bottom line as far as I'm concerned. Illinois is vastly superior in every facet and as long as it's focussed on the task at hand, it'll have no issues covering this larger spread. And that's exactly what I expect; lay the points!

T.M. Prediction: COMING SHORTLY.

T.M. Selection: East Tennessee State (10* MONEY-MAKER).

I like the 12-8 Bucs to pull off the minor upset here. East Tennessee State is 12-8 and it's led by Ledarrius Brewer with 16.5 PPG. Overall the Buccaneers average 71 PPG, while allowing 65.8. The Mocs are 16-5 and led by David Jean-Baptistte with 17.2 PPG. Overall Chattanooga averages 74.3 PPG, while allowing 69.8. East Tennessee State has performed well in this spot for bettors by going 15-7 ATS in its last 22 vs. teams with winning records. ETSU plays with revenge here after losing by two points earlier in the year and that extra motivation edge is the difference maker here.

T.M. Prediction: COMING SHORTLY.

T.M. Selection: Maryland (10* BANKROLL BUILDER).

Maryland crushed the Gophers 63-49 in the first meeting this year and I expect a similar final discrepancy once the final buzzer sounds this time around as well. Revenge is all well and good in certain situations, but the Gophers have yet to even win a game on the road yet this year. The Terps have the 35th ranked defense and it has several impressive victories this year, including over Illinois and Wisconsin. The Terps are 4-1 ATS the last five in this series, while the Gophers are just 1-6 ATS in their last seven away from friendly confines. I'm laying the points!

T.M. Prediction: COMING SHORTLY.

T.M. Selection: Rutgers (10* BEST OF THE BEST).

No upsets here in my opinion. The Northwestern Wildcats are struggling in the Big 10. Overall the Wildcats average 72.9 PPG, while allowing 74.1. The Scarlet Knights had won four of five before losing to Iowa last time out. It beat Northwestern on the road by 8 points earlier, but a bigger blowout is in the cards here in my opinion, as note that Rutgers is 7-2 ATS in its last nine home games following a SU/ATS loss. I'm laying the points!

T.M. Prediction: COMING SHORTLY.

T.M. Selection: Minnesota (10* TRADE-MARK).

The GOlden Gophers will be hungry to break out of a 3-6 run out of their last nine games. Purdue is 6-2 in its last eight. Both teams are still in contention for a tournament spot. This is a big time revenge game for Minnesota as well, as the January 30th meeting between the schools saw a 19-point Purdue victory. Minnesota though is a "different" team at home, with wins over St. Louis, Iowa and Ohio State. Purdue on the road can't be trusted to deliver against this super hungry, revenge-minded home side in my opinion. Lay the points!

T.M. Prediction: COMING SHORTLY.

T.M. Selection: Iowa/Rutgers OVER (10* TOTAL MONEY-MAKER).

Rutgers has won four straight and it's back in the mix as far as the Big Ten race is concerned. Iowa won't be lacking for motivation here today gentlemen, because it's dropped four of its last five to fall to 13-6 overall. Teams have begun to figure out how to slow down Luka Garza, but I think he'll be a handful here for the Red Storm. The Hawkeyes won this game 77-75 back on January 2nd, and while I'm expecting another hard-fought competitive affair, I think it'll be a little more wide-open and high-scoring in the end. Both teams are decent defensively, but the re-match points to a S-H-O-O-T-O-U-T in my opinion - the play is the over!

T.M. Prediction: COMING SHORTLY.

T.M. Selection: Duke (10* MONEY-MAKER).

Duke won the December 16th ACC opener 75-65 and I think a similar final discrepancy is in the works here as well. The Irish just gave up a 17 point half time lead to lost 84-82 to the Yellow Jackets and I think they have a predictable letdown here after that disappointing heart-breaker. The Blue Devils come in off back-to-back losses to Miami and UNC, so a win here is crucial if they want to keep their tournament hopes alive. I can't trust either of these teams in a really big game, but the Irish on the road is much too difficult for me to get behind here. Instead, this one favors the hungry home side desperate to break out of its slump; lay the points!

T.M. Prediction: COMING SHORTLY.

T.M. Selection: Furman (10* MONEY-MAKER).

These are two good teams. UNC Greensboro is 13-5 and Furman is 11-6. The Spartans have now won seven in a row and I think that an inevitable letdown is in the cars here. The Paladins on the other hand look to break out of a 1-3 stretch, most recently falling 75-67 to Wofford on Saturday. Furman though is 7-2 ATS in its last nine conference home games after being held to 69 or fewer points in a SU/ATS loss in its last outing. I expect the "hungrier" team to deliver; the play is Furman!

T.M. Prediction: COMING SHORTLY.

T.M. Selection: Villanova (10* MONEY-MAKER).

I think the 5-8 Georgetown Hoyas are going to get steamrolled today from start to finish. The Hoyas come in off a rare win, an 86-79 upset over Creighton. Despite the win, Georgetown still only averages 72.7 PPG, while allowing 74. Villanova won't be "looking past" anyone after its 70-59 loss to St. John's in its last outing. Overall the Wildcats average 77.5 PPG, while conceding only 67.4. This one has "letdown" written all over it for the Hoyas and "bounce back" for the Wildcats; lay the points!

T.M. Prediction: COMING SHORTLY.

T.M. Selection: Memphis (10* BANKROLL BUILDER).

East Carolina enters off an upset victory over Houston and suffice it to say, I expect an immediate return to mediocrity here. ECU had lost five in a row previous to that. Memphis on the other hand enters on top form, having won two in a row and five of its last six. Memphis is good on both ends, but especially defensively where it concedes an average of only 63.1 PPG. ECU is primed for a major letdown here and note that it is in fact 0-4 ATS in its last four on the road entering this one. I'm laying the points!

T.M. Prediction: COMING SHORTLY.

T.M. Selection: Gonzaga (10* MONEY-MAKER).

This game was scheduled at the last minute due to COVID issues and I think the "better" team will be more prepared to lay a beatdown here. Gonzaga is 17-0 on the season and I expect it to make the most of this opportunity and to keep up its pace from start to finish. Most recently the Zags spanked Pepperdine 97-75. Gonzaga averages 94.3 PPG. Pacific enters off a heart-breaking 95-87 double OT loss to BYU and I think it'll struggle to find any energy and focus here vs. this juggernaut. Lay the points, expect a blowout!

T.M. Prediction: COMING SHORTLY.

T.M. Selection: Pittsburgh (10* BANKROLL BUILDER).

Pittsburgh is 8-5 this year overall and 4-4 in conference play. The Panthers though come in starving to break a three-game slide after getting stomped 84-58 by the Irish on Saturday. The Hokies are 13-3 and 7-3 in conference play, but after winning two straight, I think they'll have their hands full with this Panthers team that sports almost identical offensive and defensive numbers. This one purely comes down to "motivation" for me and that's for sure Pittsburgh after the three-straight losses. Pittsburgh's at home as well and while I do think the straight-up outright is possible, in the end I'm grabbing the points.

T.M. Prediction: COMING SHORTLY.

T.M. Selection: WVU (10* BANKROLL BUILDER).

The 17th ranked WVU Mountaineers got caught looking past Floriday last time out, losing 85-80. Suffice it to say, I don't expect that to happen again here. WVU faces an Iowa State team which is 5-6 this year and which has failed to cover in three straight. The Cyclones are also a poor 1-6 ATS in their last seven home games, while WVU is 7-2 ATS in its last nine after allowing 85 or more points in SU/ATS loss in its last outing. I'm laying the points!

T.M. Prediction: COMING SHORTLY.

T.M. Selection: Houston (10* BANKROLL BUILDER).

SMU held on for a 67-65 win over Memphis last time out, but I expect it to have a much more difficult time here. Houston enters off an 83-60 win over Tulane and I expect a similar final discrepany when the final buzzer sounds in this one as well.  Houston won this game 74-60 in early January and I expect an even bigger beatdown here. The Mustangs average 77.5 PPG, while allowing 67.5. The Cougars have won seven straight though, as they average 74.4 PPG, while allowing just 56.5. Look for Houston's superior defense to be the difference-maker here and lay the points!

T.M. Prediction: COMING SHORTLY.

T.M. Selection: Fresno State (10* MONEY-MAKER).

New Mexico is just 5-9, most recently falling by 12 to SJSU. Fresno State is coming off a 22 point loss to Boise State to fall to 5-6. However, the Bulldogs have been better at home and the Broncos are one of the best teams in the nation. Here's the perfect opponent to get untracked against, as the Lobos just allowed 83 points to a pretty mediocre SJSU team. Orlando Robinson is a force to be reckoned with, he averages 17.5 PPG for Fresno State and note that the Bulldogs are near-perfect 10-1 ATS in their last 11 home games following three or more consecutive road games. Lay the points, expect a blowout!

T.M. Prediction: COMING SHORTLY.

T.M. Selection: Tennessee (10* SEC GAME OF THE YEAR).

It's all hands on deck for 18th ranked Tennessee, which comes into this one having lost two straight, most recently a 73-64 setback to Missouri. The Bulldogs come in off a solid cover, but an overall SU 81-73 loss to Alabama on Saturday. The Bulldogs have lost two in a row as well. The Bulldogs give up only 67.1 PPG, but the Vols come in hungry to reverse their fortunes here. Tennessee is on an entirely different level defensively though, as despite back-to-back losses, it's still eighth in the country by conceding only 59.8 PPG. Jaden Springer could be out of the line-up again tonight, but it's not going to matter in my opinion. This one has "blowout" written all over it!

T.M. Prediction: COMING SHORTLY.

T.M. Selection: Iowa State (10* TRADE-MARK).

Oklahoma State at 9-4 is about to lay a proverbial egg here in my opinion. The Cowboys have split their last eight games, they enter averaging 76.2 PPG, while allowing 71.6. The Cylones are the hungrier team for sure though as they look to snap a three-game slide. Iowa State averages 68.4 PPG, while conceding 74.8. The Cyclones though are a near-perfect 7-1 ATS in their last eight after a three-games or longer SU/ATS losing streak. The extra time off between games is going to be beneficial for the home side and while the outright is possible, let's grab the points!

T.M. Prediction: COMING SHORTLY.

T.M. Selection: Rhode Island (10* BANKROLL BUILDER).

Rhode Island won this game 76-75 last year, but I'm expecting a much bigger victory today. Fordham enters this game as the lowest scoring team in the country, averaging only 51 PPG this season. Rhode Island is already 4-1 when playing in Kingston. Note that Rhode Island is also 5-1 ATS in its last six as a home favorite in the -16.5 to -19.5 points range as well. This is a major mismatch in every respect and I expect a blowout of epic proportions!

T.M. Prediction: COMING SHORTLY.

T.M. Selection: UTEP/LA Tech OVER (10*).

Louisiana Tech is 11-4, averaging 73.8 PPG, and allowing 66.8. UTEP will be desperate here as it looks to break a three-game slide. I always like betting "overs" with motivated teams and both clearly are. The Miners average 72.6 PPG and they allowing 70.3, but note that UTEP has seen the total soar over in eight of its last 12 after three or more SU losses in a row. Considering the situation and these trends, I do indeed feel this number is a tad low; the play is the over!

T.M. Prediction: COMING SHORTLY.

T.M. Selection: Houston (10* TRADE-MARK).

The Houston Cougars are 11-1 overall and 6-1 in league action. Tulsa is 8-4, and 5-2 in AAC play. Houston's only lost one game, and that was to the Golden Hurricane a couple weeks ago. They say "revenge is a dish best served cold" and suffice it to say, I expect a frozen slap to the head here by the Cougars tonight. Since the loss to Tulsa though, Houston has won four in a row and it comes in now ready to lay a beating. Tulsa on the other hand looks primed for a letdown here after squeaking by Memphis 58-57 last time out. Expect the better, revenge-minded home side to keep the foot on the gas from start to finish; lay the points!

T.M. Prediction: COMING SHORTLY.

T.M. Selection: Bowling Green (10* GAME OF THE WEEK).

Akron has already had more than a few games cancelled due to COVID. The Zips are 5-3, averaging 79.8 PPG, while allowing 72.13. Bowling Green is 10-3 oerall and 6-1 in conference action. The Green Falcons are averaging 81.62 PPG, while conceding 73.31. We're coming down the home stretch of the regular season and there's no way the Green Falcons are taking the foot off the gas at home in this favorable spot. I expect a lop-sided blowout once the final horn blares, so lay the points!

T.M. Prediction: COMING SHORTLY.

T.M. Selection: UNLV/New Mexico UNDER (10* TOTAL OF THE WEEK).

New Mexico is just 4-7 overall, while UNLV is 3-6. Neither team has gotten out to the start it had hoped for this year, but I expect that to translate into a scrappy, and ultimately defensive affair here as each desperately tries to secure a victory. UNLV scored the 77-54 win over New Mexico on Saturday, and I expect a similar final combined score here as well. Note that the under is 8-1-1 the last ten road games for New Mexico as well. Considering all of the above situational information, I do indeed feel this total is too high; the play is the under!

T.M. Prediction: COMING SHORTLY.

T.M. Selection: Memphis

Memphis hasn't played since late December, holding on for a tougher than expected 58-57 win over South Florida. The Tigers face a 7-4 Tulsa team which just had a four-game win streak snapped in a humbling 72-53 setback to Wichita State on Wednesday. This is a revenge game for Memphis as well after it fell 56-49 to the Golden Hurricane at home last year. These team's offensive and defensive numbers are similar, but the longer layoff will help the Tigers in my opinion. Conversely, after their first loss in almost a month, I think the Golden Hurricanes are primed for a classic letdown in this spot. I'm banking on the "better" team securing an outright here. 

T.M. Prediction: 78-63 Memphis

T.M. Selection: Tennessee Tech (10* MID-MAJOR GAME OF YEAR).

A couple of terrible teams collide in this one, but it's a matchup which I think that Tennessee Tech will finally step up in and take advantage of. Tennessee State is just 2-7 so far this season, including only 1-4 in its last five. Tennessee Tech is the hungrier team though at just 1-13. The Golden Eagles though have played more games and faced stiffer competition. Not trying to say their a good team that's fallen on some bad luck, but I'll point out that they're 3-1-1 ATS in their lasr five overall. The Tigers on the other hand are a miserable 1-7 ATS in their last eight on the road and only 1-4 ATS in their last five after a SU loss. As I said, considering everything listed above, this one favors the Eagles!

T.M. Prediction: COMING SHORTLY.

T.M. Selection: Illinois Chicago (10* BANKROLL BUILDER).

After being on the road for over a month, the Flames return home for the first time in a long time and I expect them to make the most of it here. Here's the perfect opponent as well, vs. newcomer Robert Morris. One player to keep your eyes on today is Teyvion Kirk for the home side, as he posted the third triple-double in UIC history in the Flames' victory over Oakland on Dec. 20th. Robert Morris is overmatched on the road here against a team happy to be in friendly confines. I'm laying the short points and expecting a big rout!

T.M. Prediction: COMING SHORTLY.

T.M. Selection: Portland (10* GAME OF THE WEEK).

San Francisco is 8-6 overall and 2-2 in WCC play. Portland is 6-5, but 0-2 in league action. The Dons enter off a 68-60 loss to Loyola Marymount. The Pilots play with revenge here against San Francisco after losing earlier in the year. They also enter focussed after a three-game losing streak, most recently falling 116-88 to Gonzaga. San Fran averages 74.4 PPG, while allowing 68.6, while Portland has allowed 80.5 PPG. That defensive number is skewed though because of the level of competition the last two games. Note that the Dons are 0-4 ATS in their last four road games as well. I like Portland to keep this one close at home and while I'll stop short in calling for the outright, everything points to this one big a classic nail-biter; grab the points!

T.M. Prediction: COMING SHORTLY.

T.M. Selection: Texas/Texas Tech OVER (10* TOTAL ELITE OF THE ELITE).

This has all the makings of a great game. Suffice it to say, I'm expecting a "shootout," not a "chess match." Texas Tech averages 75.54 PPG, while it allows 58. Texas averages 75.64 PPG, while allowing 63.73. I think that the Longhorns though will be out to get the Red Raiders out of their comfort zone, and that means playing at as high a tempo as possible. I look for these talented offenses to explode in the second half; the play is the over!

T.M. Prediction: COMING SHORTLY.

T.M. Selection: Oklahoma (10* MONEY-MAKER).

TCU has dropped back-to-back games by double-digits to Kansas and Baylor. Oklahoma enters off a slim loss to Kansas as well, but it was playing without the services of Brady Manek and Jalen Hill. Both will be out here as well, but the fact that the Sooners took the Jayhawks down to the wire without them in the line-up is a real testament to how deep this Oklahoma team really is. TCU is decent, but not great. It's ranked 84th in defensive effeciency and 90th in defensive efficiency. Oklahoma on the other hand has the 24th ranked offense and 60th ranked defense. Look for the home side to put the foot on the gas from start to finish and pull away for the comfortable cover!

T.M. Prediction: COMING SHORTLY.

T.M. Selection: Wyoming (10* GAME OF THE WEEK).

These teams play today, and then again on Wednesday. Boise State has obviously been fantastic in the early going with a 10-1 overall record. Overall the Broncos allow 81 PPG, while conceding 61.27. Wyoming is no push over though at 7-2. The Cowboys average 82 PPG, while allowing 75. I don't think that the home floor advantage can be overlooked here though and while I'm stopping short in calling for the upset, I'll grab the points as I expect this one to come right down to the wire!

T.M. Prediction: COMING SHORTLY.

T.M. Selection: Illinois (10* BANKROLL BUILDER).

The Terps are bad, going just 1-3 this season vs. ranked teams. Most recently Maryland fell 89-67 to Iowa. The Illini on the other hand enter off a commanding 81-56 victory over Northwestern and I like them to continue to build momentum here as well in this favorable matchup. Maryland averages 72.2 PPG, while allowing 68.5. Illinois is out for a fifth straight win. The Illini average 85 PPG, while conceding only 67.9. Look for Illinois superior play on both ends of the court help it to pull away in the closing moments; lay the points!

T.M. Prediction: COMING SHORTLY.

T.M. Selection: Syracuse (10* BEST OF THE BEST).

Georgetown is off to a 3-7 start. Syracuse is 6-2 overall, but just 1-1 in ACC action. I think the Orange come in focused here as they look to improve their record in this favorable matchup on their home floor. Georgetown enters off a poor 63-55 loss to Butler, shooting a terrible 33.9 percent from the floor. Syracuse will be especially motivated here after losing 63-60 to Pittsburgh at home in its last outing, after previously averaging 101 points in two of three games prior. Note as well that the Orange are 7-0 ATS in their last seven following an ATS loss, while the Hoyas are just 2-5 ATS in their last seven vs. a team with a winning straight-up record. I'm laying the points!

T.M. Prediction: COMING SHORTLY.

T.M. Selection: California (10* MONEY-MAKER).

Cal comes in off its first loss of the year, an 86-82 setback in double OT to Arizona and suffice it to say, I think a predictable letdown is imminent here. Cal is off a 73-64 loss to Oregon State, but it's the hungrier team for sure as it seeks its first conference victory still. These teams are evenly matched, but Cal comes in with a plethora of situational advantages working in its favor. Note as well that WSU is just 5-12 ATS in its last 17 following an ATS victory, while the Golden Bears are 11-3 ATS in their last 14 home games. I'm on Cal!

T.M. Prediction: COMING SHORTLY.

T.M. Selection: Xavier/St. John's UNDER (10* TOTAL OF THE WEEK).

Xavier hasn't played since December 20th, a 94-83 win over Georgetown. It's last two games have been canceled due to COVID issues. St. John's is 4-6 this year and hwile the total has gone over in eight of its ten games this season, I think that trend ends here vs. the Musketeers. The Red Storm come in off an exhausting 97-94 OT win over the Hoyas in their last game, so I expect them to be a bit flat-footed here as well. Expect these two teams to battle tooth and nail and look for this total to ultimately fall under at the end of the night!

T.M. Prediction: COMING SHORTLY.

T.M. Selection: Michigan State (10* GAME OF THE YEAR).

MSU got by Nebraska in its last game and I like it to build off that important confidence building victory. Rutgers though has dropped two of three and I think it'll struggle in this difficult road arena. Rutgers is a good team. Better than I thought it would be. The Scarlet Knights only two losses have come against ranked teams in Iowa and Ohio State. This has been a weird and difficult year for all sports, but especially College. And I'd argue it's been hardest on College Basketball players, who got hit just before the Tournament last year. I'm not reading too much into early season results. I think MSU builds off its latest victory, while all signs point to the Scarlet Knights continuing to regress. The play is Michigan State!

T.M. Prediction: COMING SHORTLY.

T.M. Selection: Michigan (10* BANKROLL BUILDER).

Michigan is going to lose at some point, I just don't see that happening here. Northwestern somehow started the year with three straight upset wins, but it's since come back down to earh, most recently getting smashed 87-72 to Iowa. Michigan is 10-0 after beating Maryland on the road. The Wolverines are vastly superior and have the advantage of experience as well. Finally note as well that Michigan is 7-1 ATS in its last eight after five or more straight SU victories in a row. Look for the Wolverines to pull away in the second half; lay the points!

T.M. Prediction: COMING SHORTLY.

T.M. Selection: Baylor (10* BIG 12 B OF B).

The Bears have won eight straight and I'm not going to stand in front of this train anytime soon. Last year the Bears lost to the Cyclones in an upset, so there's no way that Baylor is going to "look past" its opponent today. In fact, I expect it to just add fuel to the fire. The Cyclones managed a win last time out, but previous to that they'd lost four straight. Expect an immediate return to mediocrity here; I'm laying the points and expecting a blowout from start to finish!

T.M. Prediction: COMING SHORTLY.

T.M. Selection: Louisiana Tech (10* BANKROLL BUILDER).

Louisiana Tech enters off a 68-57 win over Louisiana Monroe to move to 7-2 on the year. Marshall is off back-to-back wins itself. Overall the Herd averages 80.2 PPG and it allows 70.4, while the Bulldogs average 74.8, while conceding 66.4. Louisiana Tech is a much better team at home. As good as Marshall has been, I'll point out as well that it's still just 2-7 ATS in its last nine after back-to-back SU victories. I'm grabbing the short points!

T.M. Prediction: COMING SHORTLY.

T.M. Selection: USC (10* TRADE-MARK).

USC comes in with momentum having won two straight, most recently taking down Santa Clara 86-63 as a ten-point favorite. The Colorado Buffalos on the other hand enter off a poor 88-74 loss to Arizona as two-point underdogs. Previous to that Colorado had won four straight. The Buffs average 77.4 PPG, and they concede 61.3. USC comes in with momentum like I mentioned, but it also comes in motivated as it's lost four straight in this series. The Trojans average 86 PPG, and they allow just 63.7. USC is also interestingly 8-3 ATS in its last 11 games played in December, while Colorado is just 1-5 ATS in its last six on the road. I'm laying the short points, but expecting a decisive victory!

T.M. Prediction: COMING SHORTLY.

T.M. Selection: Rhode Island (10* BEST OF BEST).

I think the Bonnies will move to 2-1 after tonight. St. Bonaventure is so far 2-0, averaging 79 PPG and allowing 71.5. Osun Osunniyi is averaging 19.5 points and 10 rebounds. The Rams are the desperate dog in this fight, as they look to snap a three-game losing streak. Overall they've averaged 72.6 PPG, while allowing 71.6. Fatts Russell is averaging 14.4 points and 3.6 assists. Note as well that the favorite in this matchup is 7-1 ATS the last eight in the series and the home team is 7-1 ATS the last eight in the series as well. The Bonnies have only played two games. The Rams have had a much more difficult path to this point. I'm laying the short points, but expecting a big blowout!

T.M. Prediction: COMING SHORTLY.

T.M. Selection: A&M/LSU OVER (10* TOTAL MONEY-MAKER).

This one has over written all over it in my opinion. LSU ranks sixth offensively in the KenPom with a top 10 effective field goal % in the nation (it also runs at an above average pace.) The Aggies of course like to slow things down and grind out victories with a half-court offense, but LSU's pressure is going to take them out of their comfort zone for sure here. The LSU defense though is poor, ranked 118th in the KenPom. The Tigers though will look to take advantage of an A&M team which is allowing opponents to shoot 34.7 percent from range. This number is low, the play is the over!

T.M. Prediction: COMING SHORTLY.

T.M. Selection: Northern Arizona (10* GAME OF THE WEEK).

I'm of course not suggesting whatsoever that you should "sprinkle a little" on the money line. No need to get into individual player matchups or anything like that, as this is 100% based upon the "situation." The Zags just crushed UVA 98-75, but with a few days off before a Januar 2nd home matchup vs. San Francisco, I believe the Bulldogs finally have a bit of a mental letdown here. Note as well that Gonzaga is just 2-7 ATS in its last nine after scoring 95 points or more in a SU victory in its last outing, while NAU is 7-2 ATS in its last nine after a SU victory (the Lumberjacks are 1-5 this year, coming off their first win of the season.) Of course, no outright, but this is far too many points; the play is Northern Arizona!

T.M. Prediction: COMING SHORTLY.

T.M. Selection: Providence (10* TRADE-MARK).

I base my selections on many different things. This particular one is primarily based upon common sense and the good old fashioned eye test. Providence has looked solid in the early going, while DePaul is playing only its second game of the season due to COVID 19 issues. It looked dominant in that victory, but teams which have come back from lengthy COVID issues have had a difficult time this year and I expect that trend to continue here after Providence fell to Butler in its latest action. I think the Blue Demons come in flat-footed and rusty; lay the points!

T.M. Prediction: COMING SHORTLY.

T.M. Selection: UVA (10* BLOWOUT OF THE MONTH).

Am I predicting an outright upset? I'm not. But this is a few too many points to be giving up to this hungry Cavs side, as I expect the visitors to fight tooth and nail and to at the very least, take this one right down to the wire. Gonzaga is the clear cut No. 1 after beating Iowa last week. The Bulldogs though get caught looking ahead to a much more favorable schedule upcoming in my opinion, as note that this is in fact their very final Tier A game on its schedule this season. UVA is 4-1 and it'll be gunning for the outright upset after cruising by William & Mary 76-40 last time out. The Cavs remain one of the best defensive teams in the natoin, allowing just 86.8 points per 100 possessions, which ranks fourth. They're also 3-1-1 ATS in their last five vs. clubs with winning SU records. The Bulldogs on the other hand are a poor 1-4 ATS in their last five after scoring 90 or more points in their previous game. Expect this one to come down to the wire and grab the points!

T.M. Prediction: COMING SHORTLY.

T.M. Selection: Villanova (10* BANKROLL BUILDER).

At some point Villanova will have a letdown, but I don't think it'll be against an opponent like Marquette. Villanova is averaging 79.5 PPG this year, while conceding just 67.0. Nova is also shooting an efficient 37.21 percent from range. Marquette has played better than its record would indicate. The Golden Eagles average 76.11 PPG, and they allow 69.3. Note though that they're just 3-6 ATS in their last nine at home in this series, while Villanova is a strong 4-1 ATS in its last five overall. Marquette has struggled against the better offenses already in the early going, which doesn't bode well here facing Villanova; I'm laying the points!

T.M. Prediction: COMING SHORTLY.

T.M. Selection: Ole Miss (10* TRADE-MARK).

The Tennessee Martin Skyhawks are 3-1, but that's due almost entirely to the level of competition they've faced in the early going. Ole Miss is 4-1 and I expect it to make an example of TM tonight. In the early going the Skyhawks are averaging 80 points and allowing 73.8, while the Rebels are averaging 71.6 points per game, while conceding only 54.6. This Skyhawks offense is in for a rude awakening, as I look for Ole Miss to improve to 9-3-1 ATS in its last 12 at home with a decisive victory on Tuesday night; lay the points!

T.M. Prediction: COMING SHORTLY.

T.M. Selection: Belmont (10* GAME OF THE WEEK).

No upsets here today, as I look for the 7-1 Belmont Bruins to lay the hammer down onthe 2-3 Evansville Aces. Belmont enters on top form having won four straight and averagnig 80 points and allowing 69.1 per contest. Luke Smith is averaging 17.6 points and 2.5 assists for the visiting side. Evansville averages just 65.2 PPG, while conceding 72.8. Clearly that's not a recipie for long or short-term success. The Bruins are also 6-1 ATS in their last seven on the road, while the Purple Aces are a disappointing 2-7-2 ATS in their last 11 at home. At some point Belmont is going to have a letdown, but that "some time" isn't going to be tonight; lay the points!

T.M. Prediction: COMING SHORTLY.

T.M. Selection: Delaware State (10* GAME OF THE WEEK).

I'm of course not suggesting that Delaware State will win this game outright or anything, but I do absolutely expect the 3-3 Yellow Jackets to go up early, and to then take the foot off the gas in the second half as they get ready for ten whole days off, before facing North Carolina at home on the 30th, followed by Wake Forest on January 3rd. This pick is primarily based upon the situation, but it also has some strong ATS trends to support it, as note that Delaware State is 7-2 ATS in its last nine non-conference road games as a 30 points or greater underdog. I'm grabbing the points!

T.M. Prediction: COMING SHORTLY.

T.M. Selection: Gonzaga MONEY LINE (10* MONEY-MAKER).

Sorry, I'm dealing with power/technical issues due to a severe storm in the Pacific Northwest right now, so I'm not able to properly give my usual extremely detailed analysis today.

Iowa comes in off a 106-53 home win over NIU, but I think it'll struggle here vs. this elite level competition. 

Luke Garza and the Hawkeyes lead the nation in scoring with 100.5 PPG, but those numbers are skewed due to the level of the competition. 

Gonzaga has been off for two weeks, so I expect it to be extremely prepared here. Fatigue is a factor for Iowa.

Also note that the Hawkeyes are just 2-7 ATS in their last nine after scoring 100 or more points in a SU/ATS victory in their last outing.

The Bulldogs depth and balance will prove to be too much for Iowa to handle in the end. 

T.M. Prediction: COMING SHORTLY.

T.M. Selection: Loyola Chicago/Richmond OVER (10* TOTAL TRADE-MARK).

Richmond is 5-1, it is pretty good offensively by averaging 77 points per game, but the Spiders have to be, as they concede 70.3. Loyola-Chicago won't be intimidated here as it enters at 3-1, averaging 76 PPG and conceding 60.9. These teams both play at a very high-pace and I expect that to translate into offensive production on the court today (note that Richmond has seen the total go over in eight of its last 11 overall, while Loyola Chicago has seen the total go over in ten of its last 11 overall.) Look for these two talented teams to eclipse the number before the final horn blares!

T.M. Prediction: COMING SHORTLY.

T.M. Selection: Sacred Heart (10* MONEY-MAKER).

The Sharks won this game last night, so I expect the 0-2 Pioneers to bounce back and at the very least, take this one down to the final moments. I think LIU takes a step back here after yesterday's 20-point win, a contest which was close at half-time. Bettors can take advantage of this spot though, as the Sharks are indeed a poor 2-5 ATS in their last seven following a SU win, while the Pioneers are 4-2-1 ATS in their last seven following a SU loss of 20 points or more. Grab the points, but don't be shocked by an outright either!

T.M. Prediction: COMING SHORTLY.

T.M. Selection: Texas (10* TRADE-MARK).

I like the 5-1 Longhorns to bury the 3-4 Bearkats today. Sam Houston State comes to down off a poor 88-66 loss to LSU. Demarkus Lampley was a lone bright spot in the poor effort, finishing with 16 points. Sam Houston State's averages are skewed due to early pathetic competition. Texas enters off a 74-63 win over Texas State last time out. The Longhorns only allow 60.5 PPG this year and Sam Houston State is just 1-5 ATS in its last six road games. Texas? It's 5-1 ATS in its last six at home. The Bearkats have stumbled against stiffer competition this year and I expect that trend to continue vs. his defense-minded Texas team; lay the points!

T.M. Prediction: COMING SHORTLY.

T.M. Selection: Alabama (10*).

Furman is 5-1 and getting too much credibility in this one though in my opinion from the oddsmakers. So far the Paladins average 85.8 PPG and allow 61.7. Of course, the level of competition needs to be taken into account. TH eTide have splite their last four games. Alabama enters averaging 75 PPG and conceding 69.6. Alabama hasn't lived up to expectations early, but this is a big yardstick test for it and I expect it to make the most of this opportunity. I'm laying the points!

T.M. Prediction: COMING SHORTLY.

T.M. Selection: LSU (10* GAME OF THE WEEK).

The 3-3 Sam Houston Bearcats average 81.6 PPG, while allowing 72.6. Zach Nutall is averaging 22.5 points and 5.2 rebounds per contest. The LSU Tigers are 3-1 and they enter averaging a whopping 89.3 points, while conceding just 66. Cameron Thomas is averaging 22.3 points and 2.8 rebounds for LSU. The Bearkats are overmatched completely here and I think that LSU will keep the pressure on in the second half. Finally note that Sam Houston State is a poor 0-5 ATS in its last five on the road and 0-8 ATS in its last eight overall, while the Tigers are 4-1 ATS in their last five at home. No upsets here, only outright domination; lay the points!

T.M. Prediction: COMING SHORTLY.

T.M. Selection: Georgetown/St. John's OVER (10* TOTAL TRADE-MARK).

The Red Storm are 5-2 and the Hoyas are 2-3. The Red Storm were just 17-15 last year. These teams split a pair of games last year, each winning on the other's floor. The Red Storm average 80.3 PPG and they allow 75.6. Georgetown averages 71.0 PPG and it allows 68.8. The Hoyas were just 15-17 last year. Georgetown enters off a 76-63 loss to Villanova, but the Hoyas have seen the total go over the number in eight of their last 11 home games after allowing 75 points or more in a SU/ATS loss in their last outing. I look for these two hungry conference rivals to combine for more than enough to push this total over the posted number!

T.M. Prediction: COMING SHORTLY.

T.M. Selection: Toledo (10* TRADE-MARK).

The Roos are on a three-game losing streak and I think they're ripe for the picking here as well. UMKC is averaging 85.6 PPG and it's allowing 71, but those numbers are skewed due to the level of competition in their opening two wins. The Rockets are averaging 74 PPG and they're conceding 69.3. Toledo has three double-digit scorers, with Setric Millner Jr. leading the way with 15.5 points and eight boards and they're also 7-2 ATS in their last 11 non-conference home games as a favorite in the -10.5 to -13.5 points range. I think Toledo's depth is the difference; lay the points!

T.M. Prediction: COMING SHORTLY.

T.M. Selection: San Jose State (10* TRADE-MARK).

St. Mary's is 5-1 and San Jose State is 1-0. I think the Gaels take the foot off the gas in the second half though. SJSU has had a couple of early cancelations. The Gaels have won five straight, but winning leads to complacency. And with a game vs. lowly Eastern Washington up next, the Gael's have hit a very vanilla part of their schedule, before they get into the Conference action. I think this sets up as a natural letdown spot for the home side. The Gaels are also just 2-5-1 ATS in their last eight vs. teams with a winning SU record, while SJSU is 7-2 ATS in its last nine as a road dog in the +17.5 to +21.5 points range. No outright, but a solid cover, so grab the points!

T.M. Prediction: COMING SHORTLY.

T.M. Selection: San Francisco (10* TRADE-MARK).

Long Beach State is 1-1 and I think it'll stumble here vs. the 4-2 San Francisco Dons. San Fran enters on top form after back-to-back victories over Nevada and Cal Poly. LBSU used to be a mid major that needed to be respected, but the talent level has dropped off considerably from years past. San Francisco has depth, talent and experience working in its favor here; also note that it's 5-1 ATS in its last six following a SU win, while LBSU is just 4-10-1 ATS in its last 14 on the road. I'm laying the points and expecting a decisive victory!

T.M. Prediction: COMING SHORTLY.

T.M. Selection: Pepperdine (10* TRADE-MARK).

Both teams had big expectations coming in and so far neither has lived up to the hype in the early going. That said, I think this is a contest which definitely favors the Waves. Cal is 2-3, as the GOlden Bears have lost to Oregon State, UCLA and Arizona State. Pepperdine is 2-2, as it's lost to UCLA and San Diego State. Pepperdine had a 34-20 lead at half time over the Aztecs, but it inexplicably fell apart in the second half. Note though that the Waves are 4-1 in their last five at home and Cal is  just 1-5 ATS in its last six on the road. I'm laying the points and expecting a lop-sided destruction!

T.M. Prediction: COMING SHORTLY.

T.M. Selection: Oregon State (10* GAME OF THE WEEK).

Wyoming enters off a tougher than expected 94-83 OT win over Incarnate Word and I think they'll predictably stumble after that victory and in this difficult non conference matchup. The Beavers on the other hand will be eager to get back to work here after suffering their first loss of the year in a 59-55 setback to Washington State. Oregon State has allowed just 54.7 PPG and I have a hard time seeing the Cowboys mustering much of an offensive attack here. Wyoming is also just 2-7 ATS in its last nine on the road, while Oregon State is 7-1 ATS in its last eight at home. I'm laying the points and expecting a blowout of the monster variety!

T.M. Prediction: Coming shortly.

T.M. Selection: Illinois Chicago (10* TRADE-MARK).

I think this one is going to come right down to the final moments. The Flames of UIC are now 5-2 ATS in their seven games this year. Ball State is trending in the other direction right now, starting 0-2. UIC is 3-0 and it's getting balanced play across the board. Last year Ball State was 18-13, but after getting smashed by Michigan last time out, I think the Cardinals come out flat here as well. Also note that Ball State is a poor 1-5 ATS in its last six home games vs. a team with a winning road record, while the Flames are 8-2-1 ATS in their last 11 road contests. Grab the points!

T.M. Prediction: COMING SHORTLY.

T.M. Selection: Maryland (10* TRADE-MARK).

Maryland was scheduled to face George Mason earlier in the week, but that game was canceled. With a chance to bury Saint Peters in this favorable matchup, I look for the Terps to do just that. Maryland is 3-0 and Saint Peters is 2-1, but this is a massive step up in competition for the Peacocks. Overall Saint Peters averages 73.0 PPG, while allowing 65. The Peacocks allow 36.51 percent from range, which is ranked 281st in the country. Maryland is ranked 21st in the country at shooting the three-ball as well, at 43.86 percent. This is a major mismatch and I look for Maryland to roll; lay the points!

T.M. Prediction: COMING SHORTLY.

T.M. Selection: Kentucky/Kansas OVER (10* TOTAL TRADE-MARK).

Both teams are loaded with talent. Kentucky has a loaded freshman class that will be playing with a chip on its shoulder here as it tries to respond from a humbling 76-64 loss to Richmond. Kansas has done well this season as it's only loss cam in its opening game of the year to No. 1 Gonzaga. These are two teams which are offensive oriented and which combine to score 164.5 PPG. This one has "over" written all over it!

T.M. Prediction: COMING SHORTLY.

T.M. Selection: Mississippi State (10* GAME OF THE WEEK).

The Bobcats have won two double-digit games, but that was against lesser competition. Now they face their stiffest test of the young season and suffice it to say, I expect them to stumble here. Mississippi State won't be taking anything for granted either, as it's lost back-to-back games, falling to both Clemson and Liberty by an identical 11 points. Texas State won't be rolling over, and it's a deep team, but the Bulldogs are 7-2 ATS in their last nine after back-to-back SU/ATS losses. Mississippi State is much bigger and talented and I look for it to take out its frustrations on its Sun Belt opponent tonight; lay the points!

T.M. Prediction: COMING SHORTLY.

T.M. Selection: Arizona State (10* TRADE-MARK).

I'm laying the points and expecting an absolute beatdown from start to finish. Houston Baptist enters off a 69-45 loss to TCU. ASU is 1-1, so far averaging 89 PPG and conceding 85.5. Note though that the Huskies are a poor 8-20 ATS in their last 28 following an ATS victory, while the Sun Devils are 7-2 ATS in their last nine non-conference home games as a favorite in the -31 to -35 points range. Expect Arizona State's depth and talent to prove to be too much for Houston Baptist to handle; lay the points!

T.M. Prediction: COMING SHORTLY.

T.M. Selection: Washington State (10* TRADE-MARK).

The Washington State Cougars enter off a 56-52 win over Texas Southern, shaking off some rust in the victory, but unable to cover the large 11.5 point spread. EWU though had its first game postponed due to Covid and I think that's working against it here. The Eagles won 23 games last year, but they lost Big Sky Player Of The Year in Mason Peatling and that's significant. Washington State is also 3-1 ATS the last four in this series, while EWU is just 1-4 ATS in its last five vs. the Pac 12. The Eagles allowed 72.8 PPG last year, while WSU averaged 74.5 PPG last season. Look for WSU to build off their opening victory and to pull away down the stretch!

T.M. Prediction: COMING SHORTLY.

T.M. Selection: Louisiana Tech (10* TRADE-MARK).

Texas Arlington lost last night to Oklahoma State and I think that it's ripe for the icking here as well vs. Louisiana Tech, which opens its season today. Shahada Wells had 21 points in the Mavericks 75-68 loss last night, but I expect UT Arlington to come out flat here. The Bulldogs finished 22-8 last year, averaging 74.5 PPG and conceding only 63.7. This is the Louisiana Tech Classic and I expect the hosts to run up this score from the opening tip, until the final horn; lay the points!

T.M. Prediction: 80-60 Louisiana Tech.

T.M. Selection: Gonzaga (10* BANKROLL BUILDER).

Gonzaga is No. 1 and Kansas is No. 6 to open the new season. The Bulldogs are loaded and I think they're going to steamroll the Jayhawks. Gonzaga has many key players returning from last year's team which went 31-2 last season, including 15-1 in conference, but it also got some great news in that Andrew Nembhard was granted his waiver to come over from Florida immediately, he averaged 11.2 PPG last year. Kansas was 28-3 last year and 17-1 in conference, but the top two scorers from last year's team are gone. That's some big shoes to fill. Look for Gonzaga to pounce and make a statement on the national stage; lay the points!

T.M. Prediction: 80-70 Gonzaga.

T.M. Selection: Butler (10* TRADE-MARK).

WMU has a new head coach since 2003, as Steve Hawkins is gone and his assistant Clayton Banes has taken over. WMU has already lost the services of top players Brandon Johnson and Michael Flowers for the season, putting added pressure on Titus Wright and Artis WHite to fill the void. Last year the Broncos finished 6-12, as they averaged 67 points per game, while allowing 72.7. The Bulldogs turn to Aaron Thompson this year. This is a difficult matchup for the visiting side, as Butler has many key pieces back and note as well that WMU is just 1-4 ATS in its last five on the road. The skill and talent level is massive here; I'm laying the points!

T.M. Prediction: 80-50 Butler.

T.M. Selection: Clemson (10* MONEY-MAKER).

Both teams have some big signature wins this year, but for the most part each was pretty poor. The Hurricanes finished 15-15 and the Tigers ended up 15-15 as well. Clemson does play with revenge here after falling 73-68 in OT to Miami Florida in late December. Miami Florida comes into this game though without the services of leading scorer Chris Lykes, who was injured in a loss to Virginia last Wednesday. The Tigers are still ranked 39th in the entire NCAA on the defensive end as well. Expect the Tigers to pull away down the stretch for the comfortable ATS cover.

T.M. Prediction: 70-60 Clemson.

T.M. Selection: North Carolina (10* GAME OF THE WEEK).

Obviously it's been a horrible season for the Tar Heels, who have endured several long losing streaks this season. UNC has the best player on the floor in this one though in Cole Anthony and I believe the dynamic player will be a difference maker in this one. UNC did lose to Duke in its finale for a second time this season, but it did play much better down the stretch. The Tar Heels play with revenge here too after a 79-77 double OT loss to the Hokies on January 22nd (previous to the loss to Duke, UNC had won four straight). VT lost in its finale to Notre Dame. The Hokies only average 69 PPG and they're a terrible 2-12 ATS in their last 14 overall. UNC averages 72 PPG and it's 4-2 ATS in its last six overall. I'm laying the points and expecting a blowout of epic proportions!

T.M. Prediction: 80-60 UNC. 

T.M. Selection: BYU/Saint Mary's OVER (10* TOTAL TRADE-MARK).

I think this total is a little low. Saint Mary's is 24-7 and BYU is 24-7. Each team was victorious against the other on its home floor. The Cougars won 81-79, while the Gaels prevailed 87-84. Both of those contests would have finished well above tonight's posted total and I aboslutely expect that to happen. The Cougars score 118.1 points per 100 possessions, while the Gaels average 114.9 points per 100 possessions. Both teams are super effecient from the floor and I expect this to once again translate into offensive production. This number is indeed low.

T.M. Prediction: 80-75 BYU.

T.M. Selection: Eastern Michigan (10* SUPER-DOG).

The Golden Flashes are at home for this one after finishing sixth seed. EMU is the No. 11 seed in the tourmanent. If recent history is any precedence though, then EMU has to be liking its chances for an upset here, as it annihilated Kent State 70-49 at home back on February 18th. EMU has admittedly struggled down the stretch, but now that the conference tournament is here, the Eagles have new hope. The Golden Flashes completely underwhelmed this season as well, finishing with a 9-9 conference record and note that it was favored in seven of those nine games. EMU only allows an average 63.4 PPG, which ranks 31st in the country. No outright, but expect an all out battle until the final moments. Grab the points.

T.M. Prediction: 67-63 Kent State.

T.M. Selection: Lipscomb (10* BLOWOUT).

This is the Championship Game in the ASUN Conference and a trip to the NCAA Tournament is on the line. Liberty is likely going to punch its ticket to The Big Dance after the final buzzer sounds, but I definitely think the Bison can keep it interesting until the final moments. Lipscomb has experience on its side here, as this is the Bisons third straight appearance in the Championship Game, which includes a loss to these very Flames last year. These teams split their regular season series, eaching winning on its own floor. The Flames are hosting this one at home, but I think they'll have a battle on their hands from start to finish. Outright upset? Anything's possible, but I'm going to grab the points in the end.

T.M. Prediction: 68-60 Lipscomb.

T.M. Selection: North Carolina (10* BEST OF THE BEST).

UNC lost this game at home 98-96 and I expect another all out war between these rivals. Duke has plenty to play for here as it's currently tied with UVA for the third place in the ACC. UNC though enters not only trying to play spoiler, not only trying to avenge the earlier loss, but also playing its best ball of the entire season in having won three in a row (note that UNC is 7-2 ATS in its last nine conference road games after a three-games or longer SU unbeaten streak.) I'm grabbing the points.

T.M. Prediction: 80-75 Duke.

T.M. Selection: Virginia (8* MONEY-MAKER).

I think the defending champs grinding defensive play will once again be the difference maker for UVA tonight. Louisville won by seven at home in the reverse fixture, which sets this up as a revenge spot for the home side side as well. Note that it was the Cardinals first win out of the last ten in this series. Louisville's weakness this year has been its play on the road and on Seniors Night, I'm banking on the Cavs unrelenting defensive pressure to once again "win the day" here. Lay the points.

T.M. Prediction: 60-54 UVA. 

T.M. Selection: Seton Hall/Creighton OVER (10* TOTAL BANKROLL BUILDER).

I expect each team to play at a frenetic pace in this huge game. The top seed in the Big East is on the line tonight. Note that Creighton won this game at Seton Hall 87-82 on February 12 and in my opinion, all signs once again point to a high-scoring shootout. Seton Hall comes in hungry here to avenge that setback, but also because they fell 79-77 at home on Seniors Night to Villanova on Wednesday. Seton Hall averages 75.2 PPG and it allows 67.9, while Creighton averages 78.4 PPG, while allowing 70.1. The Blue Jays hammered Georgetown 91-76 on Wednesday and clearly it'll be keeping the foot on the gas here. This one has "shootout" written all over it.

T.M. Prediction: 83-80 Creighton.

T.M. Selection: Kentucky (10* TRADE-MARK).

Kentucky has already earned the SEC regular-season title, but the last thing it'll want to do is to enter the tournament off a loss. Yes, Florida has a lot to play for here, but I simply don't see any sort of letdown here from Kentucky on the National stage. The Wildcats earned the hard-fought 65-59 win over the Gators in mid February and I expect a simialr result here as well. In fact, Kentucky is coming off a hugely disappointing loss at home to Tennessee, falling 81-73 on seniors night. Clearly the Wildcats will be eager to atone for that mess here (Kentucky is also 6-1 ATS in its last seven road games vs. a team with a home winning percentage greater than .600. The Gators on the other hand are just 8-18 ATS in their last 26 at home. 

T.M. Prediction: 73-64 Kentucky.

T.M. Selection: Indiana State (10* TORTURER).

I like Indiana State to pull of the slight upset here. This is the quarterfinals of the Missouri State Conference Tournament. The Sycamores finished 11-7 in league play, while the Bears were 9-9. Missouri State may have hammered Southern Illinois 84-59 on Seniors Night, but I expect it to get overwhelmed in this matchup. Indiana State is the deeper and more consistent team and it enters the Tournament having won four straight. Indiana State is also 3-0-1 ATS in its last four overall, while Missouri State is only 3-13 ATS in its last 16 as an underdog. I'm banking on a blowout.

T.M. Prediction: 70-65 Indiana State.

T.M. Selection: Nebraska (10* MONEY-MAKER).

I believe that in some small way the Wolverines are going to get caught "looking past" their lowly 7-22 opponent today to the upcoming Conference Tournament and that's going to be more than enough for the hungry Huskers to comfortably sneak in through the back door down the stretch. The Huskers are the worst team in the Big Ten, but they'll be eager to try and reverse their fortunes vs. a Wolverines team which has dropped two in a row. Note that they've given up an average of 79 PPG over their last two losses (Wisconsin and Ohio State). With a game at conference leading Maryland to end the regular season, this also sets up as a classic "look ahead" spot for the home side. No outright, but closer than expected. Grab the points!

T.M. Prediction: 80-70 Michigan.

T.M. Selection: Saint Louis (10* GAME OF THE WEEK).

Saint Louis enters the final regular season game off a big win over Rhode Island and it won't want to take the foot off the gas now that it's so close to the finish line. With that victory the Billikens are now in the talk for an NCAA Tournament spot (as long as they can now run the table throughout the conference tournament). George Mason started 11-1, but it then went 4-13. Most recently it comes in off a heart-breaking 81-78 setback to Duquesne. These teams met at Saint Louis earlier in the year and the Billikens posted the 81-71 victory. Expect a similar (or even larger!) victory for the visiting side tonight.

T.M. Prediction: 72-60 Billikens.

T.M. Selection: Purdue (10* TRADE-MARK).

Iowa is 20-9 overall, but Purdue annihilated it 104-68 at home last month. Clearly that's not going to happen again here and while I do believe the outright upset is in the cards tonight as well, in the end I'll be recommending for everyone to grab the ample points. Purdue also has wins over VCU, Virginia and Michigan State. The Boilersmakers have gone just 1-3 in their last four though and they'll need a few miracles to make it back into the NCAA Tournament at this point. And a victory here would certainly go a long away in helping their cause. The Hawkeyes have looked better of late, but note that they're just 2-5 ATS in their last seven in trying to revenge a same season loss vs. an opponent of 30 points or more. In the end, let's grab the points!

T.M. Prediction: 73-72 Iowa.

T.M. Selection: Weber State (10* GAME OF THE WEEK).

Idaho State is 6-20, while Weber State is 11-17. Idaho State comes in with zero momentum, as it's lost 12 straight and failed to cover in three straight as well. Weber State fans can empathize though, as the Wildcats enter hungry here after having lost three of their last four. The Bengals are horrible in every offensive and defensive category, but particularly in the rebounding department, pulling only 32.8 per game. And if recent history is any precedence, then the Wildcats have to be loving their chances today, as they already beat the Bengals 76-68 on the road. This is a big opportunity for the Wildcats after a scuffling stretch and with just a couple of games remaining in the regular season. The stage is set for an explosive home victory here.

T.M. Prediction: 80-60 Weber State.

T.M. Selection: Rhode Island (10* TRADE-MARK).

Saint Louis is 20-7 and Rhode Island is 20-8. Overall the Billikens average 71.8 PPG and they allow 66.1. Saint Louis though is just 4-4 in true road games this year. Rhode Island won't be taking anything for granted here after a slim road win over Fordham last time out. The Rams average 74.7 PPG and they allow 68.4. Rhode Island is also 4-0 ATS in its last four following an ATS loss, while Saint Louis is 0-5 ATS in its last five following a SU victory. I'm laying the points as all signs point to a big time home victory in the A-10 reg. season finale.

T.M. Prediction: 75-65 Rhode Island.

T.M. Selection: Cincy/Houston OVER.

The Bearcats are in a race for first place with three games remaining. Clearly the visitors will have to try and push the pace and keep up with the home side. Cincinnati beat Wichita State last time out by a score of 67-64, but the Bearcats are definitely going to have their hands full here with a Memphis team also looking to lock down top spot in the conference and which enters off a tough 60-59 loss to Memphis in its last outing. Finally note that the Bearcats average 73.5 PPG and the Cougars average 72.8. Considering all of the above factors, I look for this total to fly over sooner, rather than later.

T.M. Prediction: 77-70 Houston.

T.M. Selection: 10* UNDER Santa Barbara/UC Irvine.

I think this will be a battle from start to finish vs. the 19-9 UC Santa Barbara Gauchos vs. the 20-10 UC Irvine Anteaters. The Gauchos come to town red hot, winners of five of their last six. Their only loss came to UC Davis recently. UC Irvine is No. 1 in the Big West and it won't want to falter here so close to the finish line. UC Irvine though plays with revenge here as well after stumbling at Santa Barbara eariler in the year (the teams combined for just 124 points in that one.) Look for a similarily hard-fought affair and for this total to stay well under once the final horn blares.

T.M. Prediction: 68-65 UC Irvine.

T.M. Selection: Michigan State (10* TRADE-MARK).

This is a big game, with big conference tournament implications and I'm calling for the minor upset. Michigan State comes to town off two straight wins. Maryland has won ten of 11, but I think it'll have difficulty here vs. this MSU team which plays with revenge after falling at home to Maryland a couple of weeks ago. Both teams have excellent defenses, but the overall experience that Michigan State brings to the table can't be underestimated as big factor working in its favor here. Michigan State has found its groove again and I believe the "revenge factor" DOES matter in this one (that said, let's grab the points!)

T.M. Prediction: 71-69 Michigan State.

T.M. Selection: Davidson/Dayton OVER (10* TOTAL TRADE-MARK).

In my opinion, this one sets up as a shootout, not a defensive battle. The Flyers have won 17 straight and with just a hand full of games left to go before the Tournaments start, I have a hard time seeing Dayton taking the foot off the gas at this point. Especially at home. Davidson though would love nothing more than to play spoiler and it enters having won four of its last five. Both teams average over 70 PPG on the season and with what I expect to be a frantic pace from start to finish, we can expect this total to fly over sooner, rather than later!

T.M. Prediction: 80-70 Dayton.

T.M. Selection: Kent State (10* BANKROLL BUILDER).

Yes 14-14 Ohio is going to be "hungry" here, but I don't think that's going to matter vs. the vastly superior Kent State Flashes. These teams met two weeks ago and the Golden Flashes pulled away for a relatively simple 87-72 victory. Ken State is averaging 76 PPG and it's allowing 69.3, while Ohio is averaging 71.1 PPG and allowing 68.5. Kent State though is 5-0 ATS this year as a road dog of six points or less, while Ohios is just 3-7 ATS in its last ten as a home favorite of three points or less or pick. I'm grabbing the points, but expecting an outright.

T.M. Prediction: 75-65 Kent State.

T.M. Selection: San Diego (10*).

San Diego is a putrid 9-20 overall and 2-12 in WCC action. Gonzaga though is going to get classically caught "looking past" its lowly opponent in my opinion though. The Bulldogs are 27-2 and 13-1 overall and they have their sights set on a National title right now, not on the lowly Toreros. SD also catches Gonzaga off a disappointing loss to BYU and I think it's collectively still caught up on that monster letdown. I definitely think that the conditions are correct for a much more competitive battle than what the oddsmakers are trying to lead us to believe. So grab the points!

T.M. Prediction: (80-70 Gonzaga).

T.M. Selection: UNC Greensboro (10* TRADE-MARK).

This is a big game for both 23-6 teams. Both teams enter off victories as well. The bottom line is though is that I can't stress how important I feel that the home court advantage will be in this particular matchup. The Furman Paladins got destroyed by the Spartans 86-73 at home back January 11th and I expect an even bigger lop-sided blowout here. Sometimes the revenge angle works and other times it's completely overrated. I believe the latter is definitely the case in this one. Lay the points, but expect a big blowout!

T.M. Prediction: (75-60 UNC Greensboro).

T.M. Selection: Valparaiso (10* BEST OF THE BEST).

Missouri State is 14-15 and Valparaiso is 15-14. Both teams though come in having won three of their last four. Missouri State's only loss in that time though came against Bradley on the road, 83-79. The Crusaders though most recently come in off a win at home over Bradley, cruising to a 90-78 win. The Bears score 69.4 PPG and they allow 67.2, while the Crusaders average 72.3 PPG and allow 71.3. Valparaiso though is a near-perfect 6-1 ATS this year vs. teams with a road winning percentage of less than .400 and I expect that strong to get carried over here in this difficult road building. Lay the short points. 

T.M. Prediction: 75-65 Valpo.

T.M. Selection: Florida State.

These are two of the top teams in the country, but bottom line is that I don't think we can overlook the home floor advantage as being a very real deciding factor in this particular matchup. Louisville comes in off a 72-55 win over UNC, but FSU is an entirely different animal, especially at home. And especially on the defensive side of the ball. FSU already smashed Louisville on its home court the last time these teams played and I expect a similar result here as well. This one has double-digit destruction written all over it in my professional opinion.

T.M. Prediction: 75-65 FSU.

T.M. Selection: Indiana State (10* MONEY-MAKER).

Indiana State ended a three-game slide with a big 67-64 win over Northern Iowa last time out, getting 18 points and seven boards form Jake Laravia. Evansville though is a complete disaster and I expect it to continue to struggle here, most recently coming off a listless 70-53 loss to Southern Illinois, its 15th setback in a row. The Sycamores need to keep the foot on the gas here and after beating the No. 1 team in the league, I don't think there's any reason not believe that they can't in fact do that. Evansville is just 5-15-1 ATS in its last 21 at home and I look for that record to get even worst after tonight. No trap here, look for Indiana State to instead take advantage!

T.M. Prediction: (76-60 Sycamores).

T.M. Selection: Florida State (10* BANKROLL BUILDER).

North Carolina State admittedly comes in off an impressive 88-66 win over Duke last time out, but I think it's poised for a classic letdown here. FSU is 12-3 in ACC play after its 82-67 win over Pittsburgh. The Wolfpack are just 8-7 in league play. NC State lost to Boston College previous to this big upset last time out, so I'm not reading too much into this most recent result. FSU's size and depth will prove to be too much for the home side to keep pace with down the stretch.

T.M. Prediction: 76-70 FSU.

T.M. Selection: Tennessee/Auburn OVER (10* TOTAL TRADE-MARK).

This is a big game. These two teams will also meet in their regular season finales in Knoxville. The Vols have four players averaging in double-figures. Overall Tennessee averages 66.8 PPG, while allow 62.1. Auburn comes home eager to shake off consecutive road losses. Expect the home side to push the pace from start to finish. Tennessee averages 79 PPG and it allows 70.9. Auburn has scored 80 or more points in six of its last seven conference home games and Tennessee is going to have to match pace. This total is low.

T.M. Prediction: 77-73 Auburn.

T.M. Selection: Harvard (10* IVY-LEAGUE).

The bottom line on this one is, I don't think you can overlooked the "home court advantage" as being a very real deciding factor in this particular matchup. Harvard won't be taking anything for granted here after the Tigers snuck by the Crimson 70-69 in Princeton on February 1st. Both teams come in off less that impressive wins, but in this big contest, where the winner will take over the No. 1 spot, I think the revenge minded home side gets the job done vs. a Tigers team which just gave up 88 points to Yale. Lay the points here.

T.M. Prediction: 80-62 Harvard.

T.M. Selection: Rutgers

The Wolverines have owned this matchup, winning all 12 games. That changes tonight. Wolverines are 1-5 ATS as road underdogs. Rutgers is 6-1 ATS When The Total Is 130 To 139.5. Knights are also a perfect 5-0 ATS As A Home Favorite Of 6 Points Or Less Or Pick. Knights haven't lost here all season. They'll stay perfect at home!

T.M. Prediction: 69-63 Rutgers

T.M. Selection: Portland State

10* Portland State. Analysis to come. 

T.M. Prediction: 82-65 Portland State

T.M. Selection: EAST CAROLINA

Cincinnati was -17 here last season and East Carolina won the game. Did you know that Bearcats are 1-6 when the total is 140 to 149.5. Thats both SU and ATS. Pirates 8-3 ATS last 11 as a home underdog of 9.5 to 12 points. This game will be close. Grab points.

T.M. Prediction: 75-71 Cincinnati